By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command, Bethrand Onuoha, has ordered a statewide security clampdown to ensure safety and peace before, during, and after the Yuletide celebrations.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP William Ovye Aya, on Monday in Lokoja.
According to the statement, CP Onuoha gave the directive while addressing the Command Management Team and Tactical Commanders at the Command Headquarters in Lokoja.
The Commissioner disclosed that the Command has rolled out an intensive crime prevention and control strategy to safeguard lives and property throughout the festive period.
He assured residents that the Police, working in synergy with other security agencies, remain committed to eliminating criminal activities and improving public safety.
CP Onuoha directed Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and Area Commanders to mobilize personnel and operational assets for high-visibility patrols on highways, residential areas, and worship centers.
He further tasked them to secure vulnerable locations and conduct undercover operations in black spots and crime-prone areas to apprehend offenders before they strike.
The CP called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies. He emphasized the role of community collaboration in intelligence gathering to boost crime prevention and management.
Reiterating the ban on fireworks, CP Onuoha warned parents to prevent their children from using knockouts and other explosives.
He stated that violators would face arrest and prosecution, stressing that such acts could lead to public disorder.
The CP assured Kogi residents of watertight security measures and urged law-abiding citizens to go about their activities without fear.
He, however, warned that anyone attempting to breach public peace or take the law into their hands would face the full wrath of the law.